altNEW TORY leader David Cameron today (December 15) announced the reappointment of Hugh Robertson as the Shadow Sports and Olympics Minister, a role that is set to become increasingly high profile during the next few years. It is a reward from Cameron to Robertson, who was one of his original backers when he launched his leadership campaign to succeed Michael Howard in May.

 

Robertson, the MP for Faversham and Mid-Kent, was appointed originally Sports Spokesman in the House of Commons in September 2004 following two years in the Whips Office from 2002-04. He became Shadow Sports Minister in January 2005 and Shadow Sports and Olympics Minister following the successful 2012 bid.

 

He accompanied the bid team out to Singapore in July and recently took the London Olympics bill through The House of Commons on behalf of the Conservatives, although most of his proposed amendments on capping the amount London 's taxpayers will have to contribute towards the Games were defeated.

 

"I asked David Cameron if I could keep my existing job so am delighted that he has asked me to remain in post," said Robertson.

 

"Sport is moving up the political agenda as a delivery mechanism across areas of education, health and social inclusion. There are also the London 2012 Olympics.

 

"This is an incredibly exciting time for British Sport so I am delighted to have the opportunity to have the opportunity to make my own contribution."

 

Robertson has, predictably, been critical of the low profile he claims sport has under Tony Blair. His views are sure to bring him into sharp conflict with the Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell during the next few years.

 

"The benefits of sport as a tool of government are obvious," he wrote in an article for The Daily Telegraph earlier this year. "Encouraging more people to take part is good for the nation's health and social cohesion.

 

"Playing competitive sport at school helps children to develop academically and teaches them a range of skills. However, sport does not currently have the political clout necessary to deliver across government."

 

Robertson is a playing member of MCC and captained the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst at cricket. He also played hockey for Sandhurst , rugby for his regiment and completed the army long equitation course.

 

He is a keen skier, runner and supporter of Chelsea , which he shares in common with London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe.